There has been considerable excitement (and press) about green travel certification initiatives. Everyone agrees that sustainable practices in tourism is important and good. But plenty of questions still need to be answered about global sustainability criteria, application and monitoring standards. Meanwhile, everyday more green travel products are being offered to travelers. Often, travelers buy travel offerings based on “good faith” because they have no way to evaluate providers’ green initiatives.
There has been efforts to develop a Global Sustainable Tourism Criteria, but Professor Harold Goodwin of the International Center for …

People across the globe have started to adopt “greener” ways of living, including the hotels that they stay in..

Tourism is the number one industry in the world with about 700 million people spending $2-$3 trillion annually on travel. Travel can be divided into two main categories: conventional travel, like trips to Disneyworld or Paris, and alternative travel, best described as a new travel ethic that is aware of the finite, interconnected and precious nature of our world. Alternative travel is expected to grow most quickly over the next two decades.

With popularity for alternative travel growing, niches are springing up all the time…

Once again, Sustainable Travel International (STI) is running its Green Travel Auction. The auction will run until October 30. This is your chance to get some fabulous eco-adventures, green hotel stays, and incredible tours at a fraction of the retail price and support a great cause at the same time! There are 43 travel items being auctioned with low opening bids. Here are some great deals to be had:
3-night stay and community project tour in Cambodia    $220
Spend three night at Journeys Within B&B in Siem Reap, Cambodia and enjoy a …

For many of us who travel, we are always looking for great tools for the road without the bulk. Imagine carrying all those guidebooks to help you figure out what to do and what the “must see” places are.  How about  locating a restaurant near where you are staying? Did you ever want a quick way to find the rest of your group and round them up so you can all move on? We found 10 great iPhone apps that will make you life easier when you travel, and some …

Travel responsibly means conserving natural resources, supporting local cultures and making a positive impact on the places we visit. Whether you take big steps or small ones, they all make a difference. National Geographic Traveler put together the Ultimate Guide to Sustainable Travel offering 50 tips. The tips are great and you should check them out if you have time. We were slightly overwhelmed and thought we put together a simpler version that highlights the most practical ones that most travelers could easily do.
1. Choose tour operators that support sustainable …

Sustainable Travel International (STI) is running its second annual Green Travel Auction , in which you can buy earth-friendly trips, hotel stays, and travel accessories for prices well below the retail value.
Over 50 of its member organizations have generously donated to the Auction. These companies include recognizable names from sustainable travel such as Boundless Journey, Intrepid Travel, Journeys Within, Seascape Kayak Tours, Tahiti Expeditions, Peace Through Travel, Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge and many more. Donations include hand-crafted handbags to once-in-a-lifetime experiences!
Many of the travel packages are still at the opening …